I Went
After busting my face on some stairs in Denver, I decided to suck it up and go on my planned trip to Turkey for fifteen days. I had visited China on a tour the year before, swearing I would never again go on an escorted tour. Regardless of how I budgeted, escorted tours are the most cost-effective option. So here we go again… more scurry, rush, and hurry through Turkey.
Note: This was years before the problems in the Middle East. At that time, women were forced to wear scarves in any religious place. Yes, even foreign women.
Istanbul
The Blue Mosque (also known as the Sultan Ahmed Mosque) was constructed between 1609 and 1617 in the Ottoman architectural style.
Of course, we visited Hagia Sophia. I had studied this temple in art school, what a marvel, and one of my most treasured moments during my travels. But the photos were crap because the lighting was so dark.
The tour company had suggested not to wear flashy jewelry or have expensive cameras. So, yes, my photos were horrible.
We got in later in the day, so I explored the boardwalk area of Antalya on my own. Finally, no hand holding.
Hierapolis (modern day Pamukkale)
Since the 2nd century BC, Hierapolis has been a center for spas and entertainment, including a 15,000-seat Roman Theater. Also famous for its bright white cliffs of cascading terraces of thermal waters (continuously 95ºF). The area is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Ephesus
Ephesus is a beautifully preserved ancient Greek and Roman city (near Selçuk). A highlight is the restored Library of Celsus’ facade, dating from the 2nd century. The building once held over 12,000 scrolls.
A must when visiting Turkey: Turkish coffee (which will smack you in the face — twice), a camel ride (seriously, the vendors are adamant), and the whirling dervishes. They are practitioners of Sufism, the mystical branch of Islam.
"Hoşça kal" (stay well, goodbye)
Where am I now? You can find me on Blue Sky.